Young drivers now have more to worry about than obeying the speed limit and avoiding accidents. Thanks to amendments to Kentucky Revised Statutes 159.051 and 186.470, drivers under 18 may face license revocation for failing four courses in a semester, dropping out of school, or accumulating nine unexcused absences.

“It’s tragic we have to motivate students like this. I wish there was another way,” said Trigg County Schools Superintendent Tim McGinnis. “It may motivate some students to step up academically and to come to school. The freedom to assume the responsibility of driving is a motivating factor for many students.”

Trigg County Circuit Clerk Pam Perry’s office carries the responsibility of issuing licenses for area residents. She said that schools must issue copies of a Department of Education form used statewide. “The schools must download the form from the state website. County Clerks will not be storing them. Students present the form to us when applying for their license.” She added that home-schooled students could obtain a form from the Department of Education, and no licenses would be issued without the form, a birth certificate, signed and non-laminated Social Security card, and consent from a parent or legal guardian.

“This new law is a good thing,” said Perry. “My kids grew up around farms driving trucks and tractors. It was a blessing to me when they got their permits and licenses, because I would have to take off work to take them to school or their jobs. It may hinder some other parents if they are working, but maybe it will get students to work harder and make good grades.”

What does the new law mean for students? Read more in The Cadiz Record.